Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Cleek.
Hi Andrea, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
After my undergrad, I was an elementary school teacher for five years. During that time, I realized that teaching wasn’t the right fit for me as I was struggling with overwhelm wrestling with many other factors. So, I started going to see a Christian Counselor to seek help, and left the first session knowing that was what I was called to next! I then started my master’s program online, and once I graduated I began practicing at Abundant Life Counseling Center in Kansas City. I have absolutely loved working at a counseling center that offered reduced prices for the public for almost five years, and gained valuable experience along the way. Then in the summer of 2025 I officially started my own private practice, Heart & Mind Counseling, after a few years under my belt and specialized training as a trauma therapist.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
For my path as a counselor, I have had a relatively smooth path once I graduated. Because of the program I did for my master’s degree I had a little difficulty at first figuring out licensure, but since being a licensed counselor (Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri), it has been much smoother. I have gained supervision experience along the way as a site supervisor from Abundant Life Counseling Center and now am a licensed supervisor as well. I have learned a lot from the community health side how to be flexible and adapt quickly when things are out of my control, and now I am learning how to manage the business side of things as I am now fully private practice!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Heart & Mind Counseling?
My business is called Heart & Mind Counseling, and I am a trauma informed/EMDR trained therapist who specializes in trauma and disassociation work. I also focus heavily on Christian integration and helping people grow and heal in their faith journey as well as mental health.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the Kansas City heart for supporting each other-there’s nothing like seeing team spirit for all seasons, sports, and events and people coming together over from the whole city. I’d say what I like least about the city is the distance away from the mountains it is!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://heartandmindcounselingkc.com
Image Credits
Lauren Kailan Photography
